How does oil injection
work on a two-stroke outboard, and what are the key maintenance points?
V.S., via e-mailThe oil-injection
system eliminates the need to mix the gasoline and oil. Instead, a gear-driven,
variable-rate pump delivers the correct amount of oil to the engine at
all speeds. The oil is injected directly into the engine at the intake
manifold, and the air and fuel flowing into the engine disperses the lubricant
throughout the powerhead. As oil is never introduced into the carburetor,
oil injection reduces the formation of deposits there during storage.

Most outboard engines
are fitted with a warning system that continuously monitors the oil level
in the supply tank and will provide adequate warning when it’s necessary
to refill. In addition, should oil levels drop below the normal operating
parameters, the warning system will reduce power to help prevent powerhead
damage.

Maintenance includes
checking the oil level every time the engine is operated as well as making
sure the reservoir and hoses are residue-free, indicating no leaks. Inspect
the pump itself for leaks and the water drain tube for the presence of
water. Place the tube in a suitable container, and drain a few ounces
from the reservoir; if any water is there, call a mechanic.

Why is it inadvisable
to let a diesel engine idle for an extended time? S.C., via e-mailExcessive
idling leads to cylinder glazing and a buildup of deposits and causes
the coolant temperature to drop below normal operating levels. This, in
turn, results in dilution of the oil in the crankcase due to incomplete
fuel combustion and permits the formation of gummy deposits on valves,
pistons, and rings as well as rapid accumulation of engine sludge and
unburned fuel in the exhaust system.

The flow of one of
my bilge pumps seems weaker than usual. What should I check?G.T.,
via e-mailFirst make sure
the strainer is not clogged with debris. Next check to see if the impeller
is fouled. If both these areas are clear, examine the suction hose for
a kink, a debris block, or an air lock. You might also want to check the
electrical connections, as corrosion may be limiting the amount of electricity
getting to the unit.

How do you keep paint
from creeping under masking tape during painting? P.C., via e-mailAfter applying
the tape, try running the edge of a two-inch, flexible plastic putty knife
over the tape. By doing this, you will get a proper seal on the tape.
Do a few test runs on an open stretch of test material so that you get
the right pressure and avoid tearing the tape.